A phono stage (or phono preamp) is one of the most overlooked components in a vinyl Hi-Fi setup, but it can make a significant difference to the way your records sound. Many people buy turntables without fully understanding the role of the phono stage, yet it plays a crucial part in delivering high-quality audio from your vinyl collection. By preparing the delicate signal from the cartridge before it reaches your amplifier or speakers, a good phono stage helps preserve detail, reduce unwanted noise, and bring out the warmth, clarity, and dynamics that make record listening so enjoyable.
Phono stages perform two essential functions:
Signal Amplification
The signal produced by your turntable's cartridge is extremely quiet - typically around 5-6 millivolts. However, your amplifier expects a much stronger signal, closer to 2 volts, to drive your speakers properly. That's nearly 300 times louder! The phono stage bridges this gap by amplifying the signal to the appropriate level.
Equalisation (RIAA Curve)
Vinyl records are cut using a specific equalisation curve (usually RIAA) to control bass and treble levels. A phono stage applies the reverse of this curve during playback, restoring the original tonal balance while helping the music sound rich, accurate, detailed, natural, and properly balanced through your Hi-Fi system at home.
You’ll always need a phono stage to play vinyl, but some equipment has one built in. This includes certain turntables, powered speakers, and amplifiers. While built-in options are convenient, we recommend using an external phono stage for better sound quality and flexibility.
Never use two phono stages in the same setup. For example, if your turntable has a built-in phono stage and you connect it to an amplifier with its own phono input, the signal will be amplified twice, resulting in distortion and potential damage to your system.
Here are three key questions to guide your purchase:
How much should I spend?
A useful guide is to spend up to 50% of your turntable and cartridge value on a phono stage, helping maintain balance, performance, and value across your vinyl Hi-Fi system.
What kind of sound do I want?
Sound character varies between models. Read reviews or audition units, if possible, to find one that suits your taste and complements the rest of your Hi-Fi system nicely.
Is it future-proof?
A good phono stage can grow with your system. If you plan to upgrade your turntable later, investing in a quality phono stage now can save you money and hassle down the line.
Before buying, ask yourself:
| Phono Box Model | Cartridge Types | Adjustments Available | Balanced Input | Output Options | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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MM only | None | - | RCA | High quality music experience for MM cartridges, at an entry level price |
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MM only | None | - | RCA | Affordable plug-and-play device in a sturdy metal case |
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MM and MC | None | - | RCA | Iconic model with great sound |
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MM and MC | None | - | RCA | Can convert vinyl into digital formats |
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MM | None | - | RCA | Offers a digital-optical signal output and a standard analogue output that work simultaneously |
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MM only | None | - | RCA | Turn any turntable with a moving magnet cartridge into a Bluetooth streamer |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | RCA | Extensive adjustability for a low price |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | RCA | Fully discrete electrical layout and premium components for smooth sound |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | 2 x RCA | Entry-level tube phono stage with flexible cartridge support |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | Yes - MiniXLR | RCA / XLR | The most affordable True Balanced option in the range |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | RCA | Fully-balanced for premium turntables and extensive settings including selectable DECCA curve and channel balance control. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | Yes - MiniXLR / XLR | RCA | Balanced tube phono preamplifier. Designed for MM and MC cartridges, it delivers clean, immersive sound with flexible controls. |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | Yes - MiniXLR / XLR | RCA / XLR | Take a step-up with your balanced connectivity. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | 2 x RCA | Tube output stage for added valve warmth and dual inputs/outputs for multi-tonearm turntables. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | Yes - MiniXLR / XLR | RCA | Dual-mono electrical layout, valve output stage and balanced connection options. Fully adjustable impedance dial on the front panel allows for fine adjustment with moving coil cartridge systems. |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance / EQ Curve | Yes - XLR | RCA / XLR | Fully-balanced for premium turntables and extensive settings including selectable DECCA curve. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |
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MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance / EQ Curve | Yes - XLR | RCA / XLR | Fully-balanced for premium turntables and extensive settings including selectable DECCA curve and channel balance control. Fully adjustable impedance dial or MC cartridges |
